Summary Statement

Checklist provided by the California State Compensation Insurance Fund to help contractors keep track of the use of toxic substances and make sure the appropriate precautions are taken to protect their workers. Part of a collection. Click on the 'collection' button to access the other items.

HAZARD

satisfactory

Needs
Attention

Target Date of
Correction

Date
Corrected

Is there a list of the toxic chemicals used in your workplace?

If toxic materials are used in your processes, do you have a medical or biological monitoring system in operation?

Are material safety data sheets available for all chemicals used?

Are you familiar with the Threshold Limit Values or Permissible Exposure Limits of airborne contaminants and physical agents used in your workplace?

Have control procedures been instituted for toxic materials, where appropriate, such as respirators, ventilation systems, handling practices, etc.?

Whenever possible are toxic substances handled in properly designed and exhausted booths or similar locations?

Do you use general dilution or local exhaust ventilation systems to control dusts, vapors, gases, fumes, smoke, solvents or mists which may be generated in your workplace?

Is ventilation equipment provided for removal of contaminants from such operations as: production, grinding, buffing, spray painting, and/or vapor degreasing, and is it operating properly?

Do employees complain about dizziness, headaches, nausea, irritation, or other factors of discomfort when they use solvents or other chemicals?

Is there a dermatitis problem? Do employees complain about dryness, irritation, or sensitization of the skin?

If you have a respirator protection program, are your employees instructed on the current usage and limitations of the respirators?

Are the respirators NIOSH approved for a particular application? Are they regularly inspected, cleaned, sanitized and maintained?

Have you considered the use of an industrial hygienist or environmental health specialist to evaluate your operation?

If internal combustion engines are used, is carbon monoxide kept within acceptable levels?

Is vacuuming used, rather than blowing or sweeping dusts whenever possible for cleanup?

Are materials, which give off toxic asphyxiant, suffocating, or anesthetic fumes, stored in remote or isolated locations when not in use?